Episodes

  • Episode 30 - Leadership Journey with Jo Caswell
    Nov 26 2025

    In this episode of Lead and Learn, Jo Caswell joins us to share her journey into early years. From the challenges to the triumphs, Jo reflects on her experiences and the lessons she’s gathered along the way. Packed with insight and inspiration, this conversation is a celebration of the joys of working with young children.

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    36 mins
  • Episode 29 - Leadership Journey with Teresa Brooke
    Nov 12 2025

    Teresa Brooke joins the Lead and Learn Podcast to share her journey into leadership and the experiences that have shaped her along the way. She reflects on the joy of working in the early years, sharing why this sector is such a rewarding and inspiring place to build a career. Teresa offers insights, stories, and lessons from her path in leadership, celebrating the impact of nurturing, supporting, and guiding young learners while fostering a fulfilling professional journey.

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    29 mins
  • Episode 28 - Leadership Journey with Michelle Windridge
    Oct 29 2025

    In this episode of Lead and Learn, we’re joined by Michelle Windridge to hear about her journey into early years and the insights she’s gained along the way. We explore team dynamics, respect in the workplace, and ways to enhance experiences for children, including practical ideas around school readiness and smooth transitions, offering inspiration for leaders and practitioners alike.

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    22 mins
  • Episode 27 - Early Years Nutrition with Louise Mercieca
    Oct 15 2025

    In this episode of Lead and Learn, we’re joined by Louise Mercieca, early years nutritional consultant, to dive into the power of language around food and why shifting our mindset in early years nutrition can set children up for a lifetime of healthy habits.

    We chat about practical tips for talking to kids about food in a positive way, common pitfalls to avoid, and how small changes in approach can make a big difference.

    Plus, Louise introduces Captain Red Pepper Pants 🦸‍♂️🥕a fun, engaging hero on a mission to make nutrition exciting for little ones. His campaign is now live and full of playful ideas to inspire healthy eating. Check it out here.


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    29 mins
  • Episode 26 - Michelle's Leadership Journey
    Oct 1 2025

    In this episode, I am joined by Michelle Hague to share her inspiring leadership journey. She reflects on the importance of experiences in shaping who she is today, encouraging listeners to soak up every opportunity along the way. From her early years of building connections to embracing fun in her career, Michelle shares candid insights on how these moments have guided her growth as a leader. Her story is a testament to the power of curiosity, engagement, and the willingness to embrace every learning moment.


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    36 mins
  • Episode 25 - Leadership Journey with Jordan
    Sep 17 2025

    In this inspiring episode I'm joined by Jordan Tully, Managing Director of Toots Day Nurseries. Jordan shares his journey through early years leadership and opens up about the power of authenticity in discovering your unique leadership style. From the challenges to the triumphs, this conversation dives deep into what it truly means to lead with purpose and heart in the early years sector.

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    26 mins
  • Episode 24 - Olivia's Leadership Journey
    Sep 3 2025

    In this uplifting episode of Lead and Learn, we talk with Olivia Mayall, Operations Manager at Realise. Olivia takes us through her journey into the early years and how stepping into leadership opened new doors, eventually leading her into apprentice training and her role leading the RealiseEY project. Her passion for supporting others shines through as she shares the experiences that shaped her path. A heartfelt and motivating conversation for anyone passionate about growth and impact in early years.

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    27 mins
  • Episode 23 - Rob's Leadership Journey
    Aug 20 2025

    In this engaging episode of Lead and Learn, we chat with Rob Danks, a dedicated preschool and business manager from Kent. Rob shares his journey into early years leadership and offers thoughtful reflections on the vital role men play in the sector. With a deep passion for imaginative play and high-quality care, Rob brings a refreshing perspective on nurturing children's development and leading with purpose.

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    18 mins